San Diego’s Greatest Pedestrian Accident Attorney

San Diego County has a pedestrian accident fatality rate that is more than double the national average at almost 5 deaths per 100,000 people. A recent report found San Diego is one of the most dangerous cities in the United States for pedestrians with pedestrian deaths at an all-time high. There are many reasons pedestrian accidents have become so common in San Diego, including a limited number of crosswalks, distracted pedestrians, distracted drivers, and congested roadways, particularly in downtown and Hillcrest. More than half of all pedestrian accidents in the city occur in crosswalks. Across the state, more than 600 people are killed per year in pedestrian accidents and more than 12,000 are hurt, according to the California Highway Patrol. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a pedestrian accident in San Diego, a personal injury lawyer can help you protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

CALIFORNIA PEDESTRIAN TRAFFIC LAWS

California’s right-of-way laws are designed to protect pedestrians from motor vehicle accidents by granting pedestrians the right-of-way in most situations. Most accidents occur when right-of-way laws are now followed, such as drivers failing to stop at crosswalks and intersections and failing to check for pedestrians while leaving parking lots and driveways. While distracted drivers are often responsible for pedestrian traffic accidents, pedestrians must also be careful to avoid being hit. Unfortunately, many pedestrians hurt in California were attempting to cross roadways while using a cell phone without awareness of their surroundings.

WHO IS LIABLE IN SAN DIEGO PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENTS?

Pedestrians as well as drivers may be liable for accidents, but negligent driving is often to blame. Pedestrian traffic accidents often occur due to drunk or drugged driving, running a red light, turning right at an intersection without checking for pedestrians, distracted driving, and illegal parking that makes it difficult to see if pedestrians are walking nearby. If you have been hurt in an accident due to someone else’s negligence or recklessness, you have the right to seek compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages you have sustained. In extreme cases of recklessness or malicious intent, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the responsible party. If you were hit by an uninsured motorist, you may still be able to collect compensation for your injuries through your insurance company.